Specialist GPs in Queensland can diagnose adults with ADHD and prescribe them medication from today.
Before this, only psychiatrists could administer ADHD medication to adults in the state.
Queensland is the first state in Australia to introduce this change.
Here’s what you need to know.
ADHD
ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder. It can make it difficult to concentrate or control impulses.
Symptoms usually appear in childhood and diagnosis requires a thorough behavioural assessment.
Children typically need to visit a paediatrician, while adults usually receive diagnosis and treatment from psychologists or psychiatrists.
It’s estimated around one in 20 Australians have ADHD.
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Change
Previously, specialist GPs in the state were only able to diagnose ADHD and prescribe medication to children aged between four and 17.
Diagnosis of ADHD in adults could only be completed by psychologists and psychiatrists. ADHD medication could only be administered by psychiatrists.
Now, GPs who have undertaken extra training can diagnose adults and prescribe medication.
In a post to X, Qld Health Minister Tim Nicholls said the change will be a “game changer for many adults with ADHD”.
Response
The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) Queensland Chair Dr Cath Hester said she is “pleased to see patients with ADHD will find it easier to access safe care.”
RACGP President Dr Michael Wright called for a national approach, saying: “ADHD doesn’t change at the state or territory line, and the rules shouldn’t either.”
TDA reached out to the Qld Opposition but did not hear back at the time of publication.
